University of Pennsylvania

Managing Director, Mack Center for Technological Innovation

The Wharton School

About

Michael Tomczyk is Managing Director of the Mack Center for Technological Innovation at the Wharton School, which he joined in 1995. 

His responsibilities include recruiting industry sponsors and managing partner relationships; communications (editing the Center's website, newsletter and conference reports); conference planning and design; and collaborative projects with other research centers.  Since 1998 he has hosted an annual event he originated called the "Emerging Technologies Update Day."  He teaches sessions on emerging technologies and innovation strategy in Wharton's Executive Education program; and consults to high-tech organizations on innovation initiatives and strategies, adjacent markets, and technology assessment/development.

RESEARCH INTERESTS:  Michael's research interests include assessing and developing emerging technologies; how radical innovation will impact the future; industry transformation and disruption.  He has notable credentials in several areas of innovation:  the future of biosciences, advanced computing/Internet, environmental/energy solutions, nanotechnology, and security/threat assessment.  He is best known as a computer pioneer for his role in the development and launch of the first home computers (at Commodore). 

Michael's is active in a variety of technology initiatives.  He serves on the core committee promoting translational medicine at the University of Pennsylvania Medical School and is on the senior leadership of the IEEE/IEC committee developing standards for the use of nanotechnology in electronics.

PUBLICATIONS:  Michael is currently writing a book for managers on innovations in nanotechnology that will be published in 2012.  He recently contributed a book chapter entitled "Applying the Marketing Mix (5 P's) to Bionanotechnology" (Molecular Bionanotechnology, Springer, 2011).  In 2006 he co-authored a seminal research report entitled: "The Future of BioSciences: Four Scenarios for 2020 and Their Implications for Human Healthcare."

EDUCATION:  In May 2010 Michael earned a master's degree in Environmental Studies at the University of Pennsylvania.  He also holds an M.B.A. from U.C.L.A. and a B.A. from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.

MILITARY:  Michael served 3 years on active duty as a U.S. Army Officer (highest rank, Captain) and several years in the Reserves.  He was awarded the Airborne Badge, Bronze Star and Army Commendation Medal.

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